I woke up this morning to the sun streaming through my window as it danced across the Atlantic ocean. Coming from New York City and a cramped apartment that overlooks an alley, I was like a kid on Christmas morning as I jumped out of bed, slid open my balcony door and let the soundtrack of the waves wish me good morning.
I am staying at the historic Courtyard Cadillac Hotel on Miami Beach, which has been open since the 1940s and has seen the likes of icons such as Frank Sinatra walk through its doors. Nestled feet away from the sand, the newly renovated Courtyard Cadillac is part of the Marriott group and features two pools, spacious rooms and fantastic ocean views. The hotel takes on the popular Miami Beach Deco style that is unique to the area. Miami is said to have the largest concentration in the world of 1920s and 1930s architecture.
The retro art deco style infuses the Cadillac Hotel and offers a touch of whimsy that separates it from other standard Marriott-owned properties. Albeit being a historic establishment, the hotel is modern and doesn’t sacrifice comfort while giving a nod to the past.
Perhaps the best feature of the hotel is its ideal location in “mid-beach” of Miami Beach-striking a perfect balance of being near the action of South Beach while being removed enough to offer quiet to its guests. Sleep is left undisturbed and the hotel seems to be an oasis of serenity in a city bustling with activity.
The Cadillac also has in-house entertainment of live music and flamenco dancing on Fridays and salsa dancing on Thursdays. During my first night I sipped a delicious “Coconut Caddy” (a cocktail of coconut milk, Bacardi rum, mint and club soda) and watched as flamenco dancers twirled around the lobby encouraging guests to follow suit. Although it was the low season and rather quiet, the Cadillac was a great stay and gave me a balcony with a view that I’m still dreaming of!
Book This Hotel If…
You are traveling with family or as a couple. The Cadillac Hotel serves more of an older crowd so if solo traveling or looking for a party weekend on Miami beach, this hotel would likely disappoint. For those preferring a private oasis near the action of South Beach, the Courtyard Cadillac Miami Hotel would be a perfect choice.
During the high season, rooms start at $300+ per night; while during the low season rooms are between $150-$200 per night. You can book your stay at the Hotel Cadillac here.
